About the Artist

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María José Miranda has played a key role in the promotion of Mexican culture and traditions in Toronto, Canada, since 1994. Her frequent travels to Mexico maintain her deep connection with its history, people, and traditions.

At the early age of 13, she became a member of “Alianza Mexicano Canadiense,” one of the very first Mexican dance groups established in Toronto, where she later taught both adults and children.

In 2005, she joined Ballet Folklorico Puro Mexico (BFPM) as a dancer, and by 2007, she took on the direction of the non-profit organization. Under her leadership, BFPM made history by becoming the first Mexican dance group to secure the 1st place award in the folk-dance competition at the 2010 "International CHIN Picnic." During her tenure, the troupe participated in large-scale provincial events, including The Ontario Celebration Zone (hosted for the Pan-American Games in 2015) and the Canada 150 official celebrations (hosted at Queen's Park in 2017).

While directing BFPM, María José had the opportunity to design and execute Day of the Dead makeup and the traditional Ofrenda exhibit at the Harbourfront Centre’s celebrations. She created traditional altars dedicated to community members and important figures of Mexico’s past, including: Don Gilberto Hernandez, Amalia Hernandez, Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco, Alfaro Siqueiros, and Adela Velarde Perez (Adelita).

A graduate of George Brown’s Graphic Design program, María José developed a focused passion for Día de los Muertos. She has executed Day of the Dead makeup and styling for performers since 2013, which inspired her to launch two new and independent projects in 2018: “Catrinas Makeup & Design” and “Ballet Folklorico Alma Mexicana.”

Under "Catrinas Makeup & Design," Maria continues to explore her love for Mexican culture, fully focused on the art of Day of the Dead makeup and styling.